Kathy W. Christian

SWOOPE – Kathy Sue (Wagner) Christian, 59, widow of John B. Christian, IV, passed away Sunday (March 24, 2024) in Augusta Health.
Born February 2, 1965 in Staunton, she was the daughter of Ida Sue (Harris) Wagner of Staunton and the late Elwood Hansford Wagner. Kathy was a graduate of Buffalo Gap High School and received a bachelor's degree in business from Mary Baldwin College. She was a member of Bethlehem Community Church.
Kathy had a life-long affinity for raising sheep that began when she received a lamb as a gift from her father when she was two years old. She paid her way through college with her registered Suffolk stock and continued to nurture a flock through the rest of her life. She also managed the poultry operation at the Christian family farm and stayed involved in all the farm's various enterprises. Kathy was an active board member of the Augusta County Fair and a loyal supporter of local 4-H groups. She enjoyed baking, sewing, and flower-gardening, and was especially fond of decorating her home for each and every season. Kathy was well-known for her involvement in craft shows and especially in antique shows.
She was preceded in death by her father; her husband, and a special aunt, Argie Knott.
She is survived by her mother; three children, Jonathan Scott Christian, John Brownlee "J.B." Christian V, and Katie Rosabelle Christian, all of Swoope; two brothers, Wayne C. Wagner, and Phillip Wagner and his wife Jessica, all of Staunton; a brother-in-law, Robert B. Christian and his wife Dana of Swoope; a number of aunts and uncles including a special aunt, Jean Sparks of Stuarts Draft; many cousins; and a special friend, Denise Bennett.
A graveside service will be held at 2 p.m. Friday, March 29 in Hebron Presbyterian Cemetery, officiated by Rev. David Boger. Pallbearers will be Scott Harris, Garrett Glendye, Doug Riley, Chris Miller, Ellen Shaver Shank, and Eric Stogdale.
A reception in the church fellowship hall will follow the service.
Friends who wish to pay their respects may visit Bear Funeral Home on Thursday between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Memorials may be directed to the Augusta County Fair, PO Box 590, Verona, VA 24482.
Condolences may be expressed to the family online at www.bearfuneralhome.com.